How it works
Dispatchers monitor load boards (DAT, Truckstop) and direct shipper accounts, negotiate rates with brokers, assign loads to drivers based on availability and equipment, track progress, solve problems (breakdowns, detention, missed appointments), and coordinate paperwork for invoicing.
Who uses it
Most small carriers employ or contract with a dispatcher. Owner-operators often dispatch themselves. Large fleets have multi-person dispatch teams organized by lane, region, or account.
Why it matters
A good dispatcher is the difference between a truck running 2,500 productive miles a week and 1,800. Dispatch decisions directly control deadhead, revenue per mile, and driver retention.
In Rig Terminal
Rig Terminal's Dispatcher plan is purpose-built for dispatchers managing one-or-more owner-operators, with load board integration, AI Load Scoring, Voice AI broker calls, commission tracking, and multi-carrier management.
Learn more →